Aldo Leopold Legacy Trail System
Buffalo River State Trail

This trail in west-central Wisconsin follows the scenic Buffalo River valley for 36.4 miles between Mondovi and Fairchild. The river, which lends its name to the trail, was named by early French explorers. They called it Riviere de Beeufs for the many bison that once inhabited the area.

The trail is built on a former railroad corridor and passes by farmlands, woods, hills and wetlands while traveling through the communities of Eleva, Strum and Osseo.

Buffalo River State Trail Map [PDF 427KB]

The trail surface is a combination of railroad ballast and limestone screenings and is suitable for a variety of uses including walking, mountain biking, snowmobiling, horseback riding and all-terrain vehicle use.

As a multi-use trail, the Buffalo River State Trail may bring a number of different users to the trail at the same time. It is important to use good trail etiquette to ensure the enjoyment and safety of all trail users.

Wisconsin Trail Etiquette and Safety Guidelines [PDF 2MB]

All-Terrain Vehicles

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are allowed on the trail year-round. ATVs must stay on the graded portion of the corridor. Each ATV must be registered in Wisconsin or display an ATV Trail Pass. Operators must follow Wisconsin all-terrain vehicle laws.

ATVs and snowmobiles are the only motorized vehicles allowed on the trail. Dirt bikes, motorcycles and other off-highway vehicles are not allowed on the Buffalo River State Trail.

Bicycles

The trail surface may not be suitable for some bicycle types, especially bikes with thinner tires. Mountain bike riders may enjoy the rougher terrain. Each bicyclist age 16 or older needs a Wisconsin State Trail Pass while using the trail.

Horseback Riding

The trail is open for horseback riding when there is not enough snow cover for a groomed snowmobile trail. Riders should use caution when meeting ATVs on the trail. Each horseback rider needs a Wisconsin State Trail Pass while using the trail.

Snowmobiles

If there is enough snow cover, the trail is groomed from December 1 through March 31 each year. Snowmobiles are restricted to the groomed portion of the trail. Each snowmobile must be registered in Wisconsin or display a Snowmobile Trail Pass. Operators must follow Wisconsin snowmobile laws.

There are hundreds of miles of county snowmobile trails that connect to the Buffalo River State Trail.

Walking

The trail is open all year to walking. Users enjoy observing wildlife, birding, photography and berry picking.

Hunting

Because hunting is allowed along the trail, visitors are reminded to watch for hunting activities. Hunters are reminded to watch for trail users and must respect adjacent private landowners' rights. All hunting regulations and seasons apply.

Master Plan

Buffalo River State Trail Master Plan

More Information

The trail is easily accessible from all directions.  The entire trail, from Fairchild to Mondovi, parallels State Highway 10 from the east and west.  From the north and south, Interstate 94 and State Highway 53 intersect the trail near Osseo and State Highway 93 intersects the trail in Eleva.

Anyone age 16 or older riding a bicycle or horse must have a Wisconsin State Trail Pass.  Trail passes must be purchased before riding on the trail and should be carried with you while using the trail.

For more information, ask:

Buffalo River State Trail
c/o W26247 Sullivan Road
PO Box 407
Trempealeau, WI 54661
(608) 534-6409